This Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole is a tasty twist on a classic! Packed with ground beef, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for a hearty meal without the carbs.
I love how this dish comes together quickly. Just mix, bake, and enjoy! Plus, it feels like a party on my plate. Who doesn’t want bacon and cheese all in one bite? 🍔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I prefer using lean ground beef for less fat, but you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Just remember that cooking times might vary slightly for these alternatives.
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds amazing flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier swap, turkey bacon works nicely! It won’t be quite as crispy, but it still gives that smoky taste.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient adds creaminess to the casserole. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using a dairy-free cream cheese alternative or silken tofu blended until smooth.
Cheese: Cheddar and mozzarella are great for this recipe. If you’re lactose intolerant, there are tasty dairy-free cheese options available now that melt well. My personal favorite is a nut-based cheese.
Eggs: They help bind everything together. If you need an egg alternative, try flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water per egg) or use unsweetened applesauce for a similar effect.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Bacon for This Casserole?
Cooking bacon perfectly is key to making this casserole delicious! Here’s how to get it right:
- Start with a cold skillet to help render out the fat slowly.
- Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally for even cooking until it’s nice and crispy, about 8-10 minutes.
- Let it drain on paper towels to soak up excess grease and ensure it stays crispy.
This method also helps infuse your skillet with bacon flavor, which will enhance your casserole.
How Do You Ensure the Casserole is Creamy and Not Dry?
To keep your Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole creamy, follow these tips:
- Make sure to whisk the eggs and cream cheese thoroughly until smooth. This helps ensure even distribution.
- Use enough liquid; the heavy cream adds moisture. If you feel it might need more liquid, you can add a few tablespoons of broth.
- Don’t overbake the casserole. Start checking at 25 minutes; it’s done when the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
These steps will help create a wonderfully creamy texture that pairs perfectly with the crispy topping!
Easy Low-Carb Bacon Cheeseburger Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 6 slices bacon
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp mustard (Dijon or yellow)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped pickles (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or fresh parsley (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25-30 minutes to bake, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a 9×9-inch baking dish and lightly grease it with some cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crispy and delicious. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off excess fat, and crumble it once it’s cooled down a bit. Make sure to keep about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the diced onion. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it’s softened. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
4. Brown the Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink. If there’s a lot of fat, feel free to drain the excess from the skillet.
5. Mix the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, softened cream cheese, mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Make sure the mixture is smooth and well combined!
6. Combine Ingredients:
Add the cooked beef mixture to the egg mixture and stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Give it a good mix until everything is combined nicely.
7. Spread and Layer:
Pour the combined mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top it with the remaining cheese and the crumbled bacon, making it look cheesy and inviting!
8. Bake the Casserole:
Place your casserole dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and golden, and the casserole is fully set.
9. Let it Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, allow it to cool for about 5 minutes. This helps the casserole set a little more. Garnish with chopped pickles and green onions or fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice into portions, serve warm, and enjoy your hearty low-carb bacon cheeseburger casserole! It’s perfect for dinner or even meal prepping for the week!
This casserole is not only satisfying but also a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of a cheeseburger without the carbs. Enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for beef in this recipe. Just keep in mind that it may have a milder flavor, so seasoning it well is key. Cook it until it’s no longer pink for the best results.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want to make the casserole dairy-free, you can use dairy-free cream cheese and a non-dairy milk alternative in place of heavy cream. There are also dairy-free cheese options available that melt well and can replace the cheddar and mozzarella.
Can I Prep This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, baking until it’s heated through and set.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If it’s a bit dry after reheating, you can add a splash of broth or cream to moisten it back up!
